I recently had my first
kiss. The problem is that it took place at a family reunion.

He’s not
blood-related and I had never met him, but we are related by marriage. He is my
fourth or fifth cousin once or twice removed. Should I feel as ashamed as I do?

Dear Distant Kiss,

Let yourself off the hook.
Unless you two were interrupted in the coat room by Uncle Oscar, there is no
need to feel endlessly ashamed. Move on, and focus on what makes you proud of
yourself rather than what makes you cringe.

When girls crush on cousins,
it is important not to cross lines or test taboos—so I wouldn’t recommend going
there again. This boy is not part of your close circle and besides, you are not
asking, “Should I kiss him again?” but “Should I forgive myself?” So my advice
is: Yep.